— A place where artists have the spaces they need to create and collaborate
— Where local stories are celebrated and shared
— Where young people discover their creative potential
— Community gathering and multi-purpose spaces
— Where people of all ages can gather, participate and belong
— This is the future we're building together
We believe the Upper Clutha can be recognised not only for its extraordinary landscapes and the strength of its community and cultural life.
Arts, culture and creativity are already shaping the future of the Queenstown Lakes District. Creative industries contribute more than $234 million to the local economy per annum and employ 5.6% of the district's workforce.
Festivals, cultural events, creative organisations and individuals enrich community life, attract visitors and help tell the stories of this place.Yet while our region has grown rapidly, investment in dedicated arts and cultural infrastructure has not kept pace.
For decades, local artists, performers, educators and community organisations have built a vibrant cultural life across the Queenstown Lakes and Upper Clutha, often relying on temporary or shared spaces.Community support for a dedicated performing arts precinct is clear, with 92% of survey respondents saying they would attend events at a new venue.
— A 500-seat performing arts theatre
— A flexible 200-seat black box venue
— Rehearsal, workshop and creative spaces
— Community gathering and multi-purpose spaces
— Youth, education and creative industry facilities
— Integrated public and cultural spaces
The proposed Wānaka Performing Arts Precinct is envisioned as a multi-purpose arts and cultural destination serving the Queenstown Lakes District and Upper Clutha.
The concept will continue to evolve through community engagement, partnership and detailed planning.
Support social wellbeing, community connection, regional liveability and long-term economic vitality through investment in arts and culture.
Expand access to outstanding national and international arts experiences while building on the region’s strong cultural reputation.
Create opportunities for artists, makers, performers and creative organisations to develop, collaborate and present their work close to home.
Embed mana whenua narratives, relationships and creative expression within the design, programming and identity of the precinct.
Develop fit-for-purpose infrastructure that strengthens the district’s cultural ecosystem and complements existing venues and facilities across the wider region.